The Brisbane Lions have had made seven changes for Saturday’s match against the Giants at Canberra’s Mauka Oval.

Fan favourite, Rhys Mathieson has been named for the Lions in the starting side for the first time in 2022, following some incredible numbers in the VFL. 

In his last month of football, the 25-year-old has averaged 38.5 disposals and 11 clearances a game, while also impacting the scoreboard.

The Lions will also welcome back Darcy Gardiner to the side for the first time since Round 13.

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Fagan: A lot has been going on

Chris Fagan says it feels a lot calmer this week compared to the last month of footy, with lots of things happening out of our control.

The reliable defender will return after overcoming a rib injury sustained in Brisbane's win over St Kilda.

He'll join some familiar faces in Harris Andrews, Keidean Coleman and Noah Answerth in the back six, who all return after missing last week through AFL Health and Safety Protocols. 

Dan McStay and Cal Ah Chee have also exited AFL Health and Safety Protocols and will line up in Chris Fagan's 22. 

James Madden, James Tunstill, Ryan Lester, Cater Michael and Tom Fullarton will return to the VFL, while Marcus Adams will miss the clash with the Giants through injury.

Ruckman Oscar McInerney is another out for the Lions, missing the trip to Canberra through AFL Health and Safety Protocols.